Dedicated football fan Graham Dartnell has made a commitment to the other love of his life - after partner Nicky Allen proposed during his team's match.

Southend United fan Mr Dartnell, 45, was left stunned after his girlfriend popped the question on the pitch halfway through a game.

Scored - Nicky gets her man Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Mr Dartnell is a life-long Blues supporter and Miss Allen thought it would be a real treat to ask her man to marry her at Roots Hall.

The 32-year-old, of Newington Avenue, Southchurch, put the big question during half time - just moments after the team wished Graham a happy birthday.

Miss Allen said: "I thought it would be real treat if I wished him a happy birthday and proposed to him at half time. He is a real fan and goes to every match he can.

"I phoned up Steve Tilson, who is involved with Southend United, and asked if he could say happy birthday and propose for me, but he thought it would be better if I did the proposing.

"I was a bit nervous. I had to take over the microphone and ask him to marry me. He was gobsmacked."

Published Tuesday, April 22, 2003

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